Sawdust Behind The Scenes: Artists At Work In Laguna Beach

LAGUNA BEACH, CA — The Sawdust Art Festival in Laguna Beach is less than a month away, and the artists participating in the annual event are hard at work forging their booths in time for the festival's June 24 opening.

Laguna Beach resident photographer Susana Cruciana took these photographs at the Sawdust Festival grounds while she was helping her friend build a booth.

"So many visitors don't realize the exhibitors have to take down and rebuild their booths each summer," Cruciana told Patch. "The booths are also chosen in a lottery; so many artists are in a different space each year."

"People are usually amazed at the all the work that goes into tearing down and rebuilding," Cruciana said.

The towering antique clock stationed at the art show has been ticking on Sawdust Festival grounds for the past 25 years, Cruciana found out through the festival's office.

It was a gift found by long-time exhibitor, David Nelson, who makes turquoise and silver jewelry that he displays at the festival.

The clock was purchased and donated by the Winter Fantasy Organization, Cruciana said.

The annual Sawdust Art Festival in Laguna Beach opens June 24 through Aug. 28. To learn more information on artists, booths and tickets, visit the festival's website.